THE WEDDING OF STEFANIE & BRIAN

June 3, 2017 Nantucket, Massachusetts

By Kelly Vaughan

Two years after meeting on Nantucket over Memorial Day weekend in 2014, Stefanie Rice said yes to Brian Barnett’s proposal during one of Galley Beach’s storied sunsets. The couple, who has traveled to the island nearly every weekend since, could think of no better location to say their “I do’s.” “We actually hung out at [what would become] our ceremony site the first night we met,” says Stefanie.

The couple added their own modern twists on wedding traditions, such as choosing to do a first look before the ceremony. “We just wanted to get all of our pictures done beforehand and actually enjoy cocktail hour,” says Stephanie. “It eased the jitters and was nice to see each other and be excited together.”

They also opted to replace an intimate rehearsal dinner with a welcome party for all 150 guests, which allowed them to spend more time mingling with family and friends. Welcome bags complete with Pepperidge Farm Nantucket cookies, Nantucket Nectars, Cape Cod Potato Chips, and local N Magazine replaced traditional favors.

To prepare for their big day, Stefanie and Brian took five dance classes and choreographed a dance to “Fix You” by Coldplay, a moment that both agree was the highlight of their day. Décor in shades of green and white hung in The Nantucket Hotel & Resort and lush greenery from Soiree Floral helped execute their desired tropical island vibe.